Hobs here are for anyone who needs an extra or temporary cooking zone: a rented flat, a garden cabin, an office or a small kitchen. Our range holds over 15 countertop models, including CASO, TRISTAR and DOMO. The main choice is between induction and electric hotplates, with one or two cooking zones.
How to choose a hob
Type of hob. An induction hob heats the pan itself with a magnetic field, so water boils quickly and the surface stays cooler and easier to wipe clean. An electric hotplate works with any flat-bottomed cookware, but it heats up and cools down more slowly.
Number of cooking zones. One zone is enough for soup, pasta or coffee, while two let you cook a main dish and a side at the same time. A two-zone model takes up noticeably more worktop space, so measure before you buy.
Power. Higher power heats a pan faster, but on many two-zone hobs the power is shared between the zones, so both cannot run at full output together. Also consider the load on the socket if a kettle or microwave is plugged in nearby.
Controls. A mechanical dial is simple and easy to use with wet hands. A touch panel allows more precise temperature levels and a timer, but it is harder to operate with greasy fingers.
Cookware. An induction hob needs pans with a magnetic base, which you can check with a fridge magnet. The base diameter should match the size of the zone, otherwise heat is used inefficiently.
Hob brands we carry
- CASO: a German small appliance maker known for induction hobs and other kitchen appliances; it has the most models in our hob range.
- TRISTAR: a Dutch brand offering small kitchen appliances such as grills, toasters and kettles.
- DOMO: a Belgian small appliance brand with a selection of kitchen appliances.
Also in our range: ADLER and MESKO.
Frequently asked questions about hobs
What is the difference between an induction and an electric hob?
An induction hob heats the pan directly with a magnetic field, while an electric hob first heats its own surface and passes the heat on to the pan. As a result, induction boils faster and cools quickly, but it needs suitable cookware. An electric hob is simpler and is not fussy about pans.
Can I use any pan on an induction hob?
No, only pans with a magnetic base work. The easiest test is a magnet: if it sticks to the base, the pan will work. Aluminium, copper or glass cookware without a magnetic layer will not heat.
Can a countertop hob be plugged into a normal socket?
Most countertop hobs plug into a standard 230 V household socket. Check the stated power before buying and make sure the circuit can handle it, especially if other high-power appliances run at the same time.
Can a hob replace a cooker?
For one or two people it can, if you mostly boil and fry on the hob. If you often bake in an oven or cook for a large family, a hob will only be an additional appliance.
